FREEMEN BACK LIFE-LINE SERVICE FOR BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED
A future of a vital communications link operated by a Durham-based charity for the blind has been guaranteed, thanks to the generosity of the city’s freemen.
Blind Life in Durham, operating from Framwellgate Community Centre, provides a wide range of quality-of-life support to more than 70 members across the county.
A key tool used in the delivery of its wide-ranging service is a special printer used in the production of monthly CDs posted out to members.
Blind and wheelchair user Jim Welch, the organisation’s chairman and founder, explained: “The technology provided by our existing machine gave us the ability to print directly onto the face of a monthly CD we post out to members. These custom-made labels are important in helping each recipient understand what each CD offers and avoids confusion.
“But the machine was simply worn out and a costly replacement, along with the inks it needs, was not easy to find. Without it we would have been in a fix but the freemen’s generous £300 gift means we can now keep this important link going.”
Jim and his wife Margaret, group’s the treasurer, launched the service in 2004 with the twin aims of promoting the welfare, independence and quality of life of members while, at the same time, voicing awareness of problems facing the blind and partially sighted among service providers and other organisations.
Their work is supported by two part-time employees, backed by a further 15 volunteers. Jim is also a board member of Health Watch County Durham, and a volunteer for promoting blindness and disability awareness for Durham Constabulary and other organisations.
Social activities for members include ‘Skype’ chat groups, a book club and monthly meetings in the community centre. Activities also offer up to three events a week and they also embrace new age kurling, new age bowls and Boccia (another indoor ball game developed for players with disabilities). In spring and summertime regular days out and theatre trips are also organised.
Eric Bulmer, who chairs the freemen’s charitable trust, said: “It’s a privilege to support a locally based charity that helps its members become more independent whilst raising awareness to the wider community of the problems of being blind or partially sighted.”
More information about Blind Life in Durham can be found on www.blindlifeindurham.org.uk or telephone 01388 763501
